And finally we got it. At the Milan Triennale, near Parco Sempione, Talisker launched last Tuesday the new eagerly-awaited Storm bottling. It’s a multivintage version (most fashionable than the NAS term. Anyway: no age statement here, too). A mix of rejuvenated and refill casks. A vague information, but now it’s time to taste it. Thanks to Federico for the sample.
N: comparing to the 10 yo, it smells younger: the peat is stronger and more acrid and there’s a newmake-ish influence of the malt (yeast, candied fruits, washback…). The iodine/maritime side is prominent (tempest on the rocks… could we avoid to write it?) and a citrusy/lemony note remembers the naked distillate. Coffee candy and licorice. An undefined sensation of caramel and spiced wood.
P: the sweetness takes the lead (fudge, coffee with sugar, caramelized fruit and chocolate). The smokiness is more intense, with a burning wood note. Here the citrusy side is warmer (chinotto or candied orange) and this profile – so different from the “naked” nose – astonishes us. It’s a shame that the typical saltiness – though present – is only in the background. Meanwhile, it’s evident the second Talisker trademark, the black pepper.
F: we’re back to the roughness: an evident maritime saltiness and an unripe malt.
It’s not completely consistent, but the palate allows us to give some extra points. The big question is: why does it cost (a bit) more than the 10 yo?! Anyway, it’s a nice Talisker, showing the most typical asperities of the distillery’ style, without hiding the youth: 85/100.
Recommended soundtrack: Elio e le storie tese – Parco Sempione
